Copyright Infringement Question

[lkhglhg]

Our wedding photographer is claiming copyright priveleges to the pictures of our wedding. Is it true that this is a "work for hire" situation where the wedding album itself might be considered a compilation?
(Agreement took place in TEXAS)

Thanks in advance

 

[JETX]

What does your agreement with the photographer say regarding the ownership of the pictures and the negatives? (Generally, the photographer owns his 'work', unless you have paid for the pictures plus his 'work'.)

However, you own your 'likeness' or image, and without a written release ('model release form') this prevents him from using them for any commercial purpose.

Once you point this out to him and that the pictures are useless to him for any future commercial use, then he might consider coming to some agreement with you.

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Steve Halket
Judgment Recovery of Houston
[email protected]
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This is my PERSONAL OPINION and is not legal advice! Consult your local attorney for your specific situation and laws!

 

[illisa]

FOLLOW UP:

Our contract says nothing about the ownership of the pictures. Is there a law or statute that says the photographer owns the pictures by default? Can we reproduce the pictures without getting into trouble?